A bicycle rim is the outermost part of a wheel, holding the tire and spokes on. Rims are usually made from aluminum alloy, though steel and carbon fiber rims are also available.

Rim width is measured in millimeters, starting at 100mm for children’s bikes and growing to 700mm for adult mountain bikes. The depth of the rim is measured in millimeters as well, with deeper-section rims generally providing more stability at high speeds.

The most common type of rim features an aluminum braking surface that faces inward toward the hub. These rims are generally lighter than others but may be more prone to damage if you hit something hard while braking.

Some rims feature outward-facing aluminum braking surfaces, which provide better stopping power and make it easier to get back up to speed after stopping quickly or going through a series of tight turns.

The price of a new rim varies depending on its size and specifications, but expect to pay anywhere from $50-$200 for an average model.

Last modified: September 20, 2022